While traveling to the Philippines on Thursday, Pope Francis spoke candidly regarding religion and free speech. While he did not specifically name Charlie Hebdo, the link seemed connected to the Paris attack against the satirical outlet. The attack has been claimed by al-Qaeda, who reportedly needed to make a statement to outshine the growing violence conducted by ISIS. Pope Francis said when utilizing free speech, there still must be a limit considered, including not to insult the religion of others. “You cannot provoke” said the well-liked pope. He said in the world of free speech “there is a limit.”
In a moment to relate the situation, Pope Francis used his assistant as an example. He said if his assistant used profanity “against my mother, he can expect a punch,” he followed the statement with a mock punch.
With the motion, Pope Francis says people cannot make “fun of the faith of others.” The pope did not condone tragic murders in the name of any one religion, and stated there is never a justification for the pain and violence caused. The pope also touched on rumors rising of Islamic extremists targeting Vatican City. The pope acknowledged vigilance is always a focus, but he personally had not heard of a specific threat against the Vatican.
In France, the nation mourned as four of the deceased were laid to their final rest. All together, 12 people became victims of the extremists actions, and 11 were injured.
In the face of defiance, Charlie Hebdo released yet again images of the Prophet Muhammad following the attacks, eliciting another outcry from some Muslims, who call the depiction of their prophet blasphemy, and demand printed cartoon images of him banned. After the attack, the country bolstered the number of police officers and installed military troops in sections of country.
Religion has created a path of passion, sadly resulting in murder over many centuries. Pope Francis did not condone any moves made al-Qaeda, but he brings to the surface a very real and raw issue; how far should someone exercise free speech, before it becomes dangerous?
Media outlets become, much too often, the targeting point when free speech is used to its maximum abilities.
The pope’s comments were not intended to pardon the violent deaths of the Charlie Hebdo victims by their murderers. He has been an outspoken advocate to promote peace and reduce the violence across the world. Religion is a hot reference point of response from nation to nation, should free speech hold the responsibility of understanding limits?
